Carpenter

A carpenter builds or repairs various structures, working primarily with wood. Some of a carpenter's main duties are to:

• Move, measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials.
• Read, prepare and interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Prepare cost estimates and documentation for clients.
• Conform to building codes and other regulations.
• Use, clean and maintain various equipment and tools.
• Supervise apprentices or other workers.

Carpenters face their own unique set of occupational hazards. These include the following:

• Use of various machinery and tools.
• Exposure to loud noise from machinery and tools.
• Moulds, fungi and bacteria.
• Chemicals, solvents, paints, stains, and other materials which may result in dermatitis, allergic reactions, or respiratory problems.
• Cancer risk from certain wood dusts.
• Flammable materials, including wood dust. Combustible dust may also be a concern.
• Risk of pain or injury from working in awkward positions, performing repetitive tasks, or lifting.
• Risk of cuts, abrasions, and other injuries from handling workpieces and using tools or equipment.
• Risk of entanglement of body parts into rotating parts or machinery.
• Extreme temperatures when working outdoors.
• Risk of eye injury from flying particles.
• Working at heights.
• Stress.
• Shift work or extended work days.
• Working alone.

Additional hazards may be present due to the nature of the worksite. Always be aware of your surroundings.

• Inspect work area, tools, and equipment before work starts for possible hazards.
• Select tools and equipment that allow work to be done using good ergonomic procedures.. When there is a choice, select a tool of low weight.
• Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
• Know when to replace accessories on woodworking machines.  
• Clean up wood dust regularly and maintain good housekeeping practices.
• Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Disconnect the power to any machine when you have to fix an issue or change parts. Use lock-out/tag out procedures and/or maintain control of the power while working on the machine to prevent accidental start-up.
• Never operate machinery without all guards in place.
• Wear appropriate eye protection, hearing protection, footwear, and other protective equipment for the task.
• Know about the products you are working with, including type of wood, chemicals, paints, stains, etc.
• Learn safe lifting techniques.
• Avoid awkward postures or repetitive tasks, or take frequent breaks.
• Be sure to stand in the correct position - always allow for kick back.
• Never use your hands to run lumber through the blade or to clean off sawdust. Use a push stick and a brush.
• Do not wear loose clothing around rotating parts or machinery.
• Follow a recommended shift work pattern, and know the associated hazards.
• Install and maintain appropriate ventilation.

• Work safely with all equipment:
  • Woodworking machines
  • Hand tools
  • Powered hand tools
• Follow correct procedures for:
  • Electrical safety
  • Working at heights and fall protection
  • Working with ladders
  • Fire safety
    
• Use, maintain and store personal protective equipment as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Follow safe lifting techniques.
• Follow company safety rules.
• Know first aid procedures.
• Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and MSDSs.
• Know how to report a hazard.
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.